Wind energy lesson plan
This science, social sciences and technology unit from Starters and Strategies explores the way wind energy is generated, its benefits and environmental impacts. It also gives insight into why societies must make good decisions about using natural resources.
The unit comes complete with a student factsheet for research and/or shared reading and discussion activities.
- Lesson plan (PDF, 226kB)
- Factsheet for students (PDF, 140kB)
If you want to learn even more, take a look at NZWEA's factsheets. In these factsheets you can find answers to questions such as: Are wind turbines noisy? Do they frighten animals? How much electricity do they generate? What happens when the wind stops blowing? and much more ....
Schools competition with great prizes
To celebrate Global Wind Day we have put together competitions with great prizes, open until 15 July. See the Global Wind Day page for full details.
Online resources
Vestas world
In Vestas World you can meet and interact with virtual characters to find out about the history of wind energy, and how wind energy is created and delivered to homes.
Danish Wind Industry Association’s Guided Tour
If you want more advanced information, take the Danish Wind Industry Association’s Guided Tour, written for people who want to know a lot about wind energy, short of becoming wind engineers. The twelve chapters answer most of the questions which students ask us - without requiring you already have a degree in advanced maths and physics. Starting from the basics about wind, the guided tour takes you to the challenging frontiers of wind energy technology as it relates to commercial, large, grid-connected wind turbines.
ElectroCity
How is energy generated? How much does it cost? How does it affect the environment? These are extremely important topics today, and are no longer just the domain of engineers and industry experts. ElectroCity, created by Genesis Energy, is an online computer game that lets players manage their own virtual towns and cities. It’s great fun to play and also teaches players all about energy, sustainability and environmental management in New Zealand.
Kid Wind
The US-based 'Kid Wind Project' explores the science behind wind energy. This site has educational materials, workshops, suggested activities and numerous links.
Visit a wind farm
Wind farm operators may arrange site visits for school groups. To request such a visit please contact the wind farm operator.
If you’d like to experience a wind farm, but the distance to travel is too far, why not take a virtual wind power tour with LEARNZ.